As we have discovered over the past 16 months, strong relationships must be nurtured and sustained, in order for our healthcare network to provide the best care for those who rely on us. All of us have had to establish links with a great many new colleagues in other facilities in West-Central Montreal Health, and we have gradually come to appreciate their particular skills, strengths and work habits, as well as the unique qualities of their institutions. It is these bridges that are helping us to develop a streamlined continuum of care throughout our network.
Less apparent, however, are the relationships that are continually being forged and enhanced with political leaders at every level. Since politicians often advise their constituents about health care and social services in their area, it is essential that they understand how West-Central Montreal Health is meeting the evolving needs of clients, residents and patients. In this sense, we and our political partners all share the goal of safeguarding the well-being of our population.
Over the past four months, I have had an opportunity to familiarize numerous politicians with the latest and most notable features of West-Central Montreal Health. In May, I met with Senator Judith Seidman, and a month later, I welcomed Pierre Arcand, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and MNA for Mont-Royal; David Birnbaum, MNA for D’Arcy McGee; and Gerry Sklavounos, Deputy Government House Leader and MNA for Laurier-Dorion.
In July, we hosted three local mayors—Mitchell Brownstein of Côte Saint-Luc, Dr. William Steinberg of Hampstead and Beny Masella of Montreal West. Earlier this month, there were visits from Anthony Housefather, MP for Mount Royal; Russell Copeman, Mayor of Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce; Anie Samson, Mayor of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc Extension; Jacqueline Gremaud, Deputy Mayor of Outremont; and Lionel Perez, Councillor for Darlington in Côte-des-Neiges–NDG.
I am heartened by the interest that each of these individuals expressed in learning more about our network, the diverse roles of our member institutions, and our plans to keep improving the quality of health care and social services. Their ongoing support will be a crucial factor in enabling us to excel at what we do best.
